Flame simulating assembly

ABSTRACT

A simulated fuel bed for simulating a combustible fuel in a fire. The simulated fuel bed includes a plurality of simulated combustible fuel elements, including one or more light-producing simulated combustible fuel elements. A body of the light-producing simulated combustible fuel element has one or more cavities therein, and one or more light sources positioned to direct light therefrom inside the cavity. The body includes an exterior surface and one or more light-transmitting parts extending between the cavity and the exterior surface. The light-transmitting part is positioned in a path of light from the light source. The light from the light source is transmittable through the light-transmitting part to the exterior surface for simulating glowing embers of the combustible fuel.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.60/628,109, filed Nov. 17, 2004.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention is related to a flame simulating assembly for providingimages of flames.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Various types of flame simulating assemblies, such as electricfireplaces, are known. Many of the prior art flame simulating assembliesinclude a simulated fuel bed which resembles a burning solid combustiblefuel, as well as embers and ashes resulting from the combustion. Forexample, U.S. Pat. No. 566,564 (Dewey) discloses an electric heatingapparatus with a cover (B′) which “is made . . . of a transparent orsemitransparent material” (p. 1, lines 50-52). The cover is “fashionedor colored” so that it resembles coal or wood “in a state of combustionwhen light is radiated through it” (p. 1, lines 53-57).

However, the use of a cover or a (partially translucent shell) such asthe cover disclosed in Dewey to imitate burning solid combustible fuelhas some disadvantages. First, a portion of the shell typically isformed to simulate the fuel (e.g., logs), and another portion of theshell simulates an ember bed (i.e., embers and ashes) which results fromcombustion of the fuel. For instance, where the combustible fuel to besimulated is wood in the form of logs, the logs are simulated in theshell by raised parts which are integral to the shell, rather thanpieces which are physically separate from the ember bed. Because it isevident from even a cursory observation of this type of prior artsimulated fuel bed that the raised parts (i.e., simulated logs) areactually formed integrally with the simulated ember bed part of theshell, this type of simulated fuel bed tends to detract from thesimulation effect sought.

Another disadvantage of the prior art results from characteristics ofthe typical light source which is intended to provide light whichimitates the light produced by glowing embers in a real fire. In theprior art, the same light source is often used to provide both a flameeffect (i.e., to simulate flames), and an ember simulation effect (i.e.,to simulate glowing embers). However, the characteristics of light fromembers are somewhat different from those of light from flames. Forinstance, embers generally tend to glow, and pulsate, but flames tend toflicker, and move. Because of these differences, attempts in the priorart to use the same light source to provide a flame simulation effectand a burning ember simulation effect have had somewhat limited success.

Also, the positioning of the light source intended to provide the embersimulation effect is somewhat unsatisfactory in the prior art. In anatural fire, most glowing embers are located on partially-consumedfuel, and the balance of the glowing embers are located in the emberbed. However, in the prior art, the relevant light source is positionedsomewhat lower than the simulated fuel portions, i.e., beneath theshell. Accordingly, because the light which is simulating the light fromglowing embers is located well below the shell, an observer can easilysee that the light does not originate in the vicinity of the raisedportions representing logs, but instead is originating from below theshell. In this way, the usual location of the light source in the priorart undermines the simulation effect.

U.S. Pat. No. 2,285,535 (Schleft) discloses an attempt to address theproblem of the fuel parts being obviously integrally formed with thesimulated ember bed. Schlett discloses a “fireplace display” including“an arrangement of actual fuel or of a fuel imitation . . . such asimitation wood logs” (p. 1, lines 22-24). In Schlett, therefore, theproblem of the simulated logs appearing unrealistically to be part ofthe simulated ember bed is apparently addressed by the “fuel” (i.e.,either actual logs or imitation logs, and also either actual lumps ofcoal or imitations thereof) being presented as discrete physicalentities in the absence of an ember bed (as shown in FIG. 2 in Schlett).Also, Schlett does not disclose any attempt to simulate glowing embersin the fuel.

WO 01/57447 (Ryan) discloses another attempt to provide a more realisticsimulated fuel bed. Ryan discloses “hollow simulated logs”, each ofwhich includes an ultraviolet light tube (p. 11, lines 25-27). Thesimulated logs are described as preferably being made from cardboardtubing, but also may be constructed in other ways (p. 12, lines 18-27and p. 13, line 1). An ember simulator is provided which is painted withfluorescent paint (p. 18, lines 4-6). Also, silk flame elements, meantto simulate flames, are treated so that they fluoresce when exposed toultraviolet light from the ultraviolet light tubes positioned in thecardboard tubing. The tubing includes apertures to permit exposure offluorescent elements to ultraviolet light from inside the tubing.However, the tubing appears unrealistic in appearance, and thefluorescing portions would appear to be unconvincing imitations offlames and embers, which would generally not be fluorescent in a naturalfire.

In addition, the flame simulating assemblies of the prior art typicallydo not provide for control, beyond activation and de-activation, of thelight sources providing images of flames or other light sources. Inparticular, prior art flame simulating assemblies do not typicallyinclude controls which provide for increases or decreases in theintensity of the light provided by one or more light sources in relationto ambient light intensity.

There is therefore a need for a simulated fuel bed to overcome ormitigate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In its broad aspect, the invention provides a simulated fuel bed forsimulating a solid combustible fuel in a fire. The simulated fuel bedincludes a plurality of simulated combustible fuel elements. Each saidsimulated combustible fuel element has a body colored and formed forsimulating an entire combustible fuel element. The simulated combustiblefuel elements include one or more light-producing simulated combustiblefuel elements. The body of the light-producing simulated combustiblefuel element has one or more cavities therein. The light-producingsimulated combustible fuel element has one or more light sourcespositioned to direct light therefrom inside the cavity. The body of thelight-producing simulated combustible fuel element also includes anexterior surface and one or more light-transmitting parts extendingbetween the cavity and the exterior surface. Also, thelight-transmitting part is positioned in a path of light from the lightsource. The light from the light source is transmittable through thelight-transmitting part to the exterior surface for simulating glowingembers of the combustible fuel.

In another aspect, the simulated fuel bed additionally includes asimulated ember bed. The simulated combustible fuel elements arepositionable at least partially above the simulated ember bed.

In another of its aspects, the simulated fuel bed includes a controllerto cause the light from the light source to pulsate for simulating lightfrom glowing embers.

In yet another aspect, the body includes one or more aperturespositioned relative to the light source for permitting said light fromthe light source to pass through the aperture.

In another of its aspects, the invention provides a flame simulatingassembly including a flame image subassembly for providing images offlames and a simulated fuel bed. The flame image subassembly positionsthe images of flames so that said images of flames appear to emanatefrom the simulated fuel bed. The simulated fuel bed includes a pluralityof simulated combustible fuel elements, each of the simulatedcombustible fuel elements having a body colored and formed forsimulating an entire combustible fuel element. The combustible fuelelements include one or more light-producing simulated combustible fuelelements. The body of the light-producing simulated combustible fuelelement has a cavity therein. The light-producing simulated combustiblefuel element also has one or more light sources positioned at leastpartially in the cavity. The body of the light-producing simulatedcombustible fuel element additionally has one or more light-transmittingparts positioned in a path of light from the light source. Thelight-transmitting part extends between the cavity and the exteriorsurface so that the light-transmitting part resembles glowing embers ofthe combustible fuel upon transmission therethrough of light from thelight source. The simulated fuel bed also includes a controller forcausing the light from the light source to pulsate for simulating lightfrom glowing embers.

In another aspect, the invention includes a method of forming asimulated combustible fuel element. The method includes the steps offirst, providing a resiliently flexible mold prepared using as a model apartially burned sample of a combustible fuel element, and second,introducing a predetermined amount of a liquefied body material into themold. The third step is rotating the mold to produce a body comprisingthe body material and resembling the entire combustible fuel element.The body includes one or more cavities and an exterior surface. Next,the body material is cured, to solidify the body material. In the fifthstep, an access hole is formed in the body in communication with thecavity, and in the sixth step, one or more light sources are inserted atleast partially in the cavity through the access hole, to locate thelight source in a predetermined position. The next step involvesinserting plug material into the access hole, to substantially block theaccess hole. The final step involves coating at least a portion of theexterior surface in accordance with a predetermined exterior surfacepattern to provide (i) one or more light-transmitting parts positionedin a path of light from the light source (the light-transmitting partbeing colored to resemble glowing embers of the combustible fuel upontransmission therethrough of light from the light source), and (ii) oneor more substantially opaque exterior parts colored to resemble anon-ember part of the combustible fuel.

In yet another aspect, the invention provides a flame simulatingassembly including a flame image subassembly for providing images offlames and a simulated fuel bed, the flame image subassembly beingpositioned relative to the simulated fuel bed so that the images offlames at least partially appear to emanate from the simulated fuel bed.The flame simulating assembly also includes a controller for causing theflame image subassembly to provide a predetermined sequence of changesin the images of flames.

In another aspect, the predetermined sequence of changes includes agradual increase in intensity of the images of flames.

In yet another aspect, upon commencement of the predetermined sequenceof changes the intensity of the images of flames is relatively low, sothat the predetermined sequence of changes resembles a natural fireduring commencement thereof.

In another of its aspects, the predetermined sequence of changesincludes a gradual decrease in intensity of said images of flames.

In yet another aspect, the predetermined sequence of changes causes theimages of flames to resemble a natural fire which is gradually dying.

In another of its aspects, the predetermined sequence of changesproceeds at a preselected rate.

In another aspect, the preselected rate is determined by the controller.

In another aspect, the controller is controllable by a user via a userinterface and the predetermined sequence of changes proceeds at a ratedetermined by the user via the user interface.

In yet another aspect, the flame simulating assembly additionallyincludes one or more fuel light sources positioned in one or moresimulated fuel elements in the simulated fuel bed, to simulate glowingembers.

In another of its aspects, the controller is adapted to cause the lightprovided by the fuel light source to vary.

In another of its aspects, the invention includes a flame simulatingassembly including a heater subassembly comprising at least one heaterelement, the heater subassembly being adapted to operate in a basic heatmode, in which the heater subassembly consumes a first amount ofelectrical power, and also being adapted to operate in a reduced heatmode, in which the heater subassembly consumes a second amount ofelectrical power, the first amount being substantially greater than thesecond amount. The flame simulating assembly also includes a controllercomprising means for converting the heater subassembly between the basicheat mode and the reduced heat mode.

In yet another of its aspects, the flame simulating assemblyadditionally includes a thermostat for controlling the heatersubassembly, the thermostat being adapted to operate the heatersubassembly in the basic heat mode upon ambient temperature differingfrom a preselected temperature by more than a predetermined difference,and the thermostat being adapted to operate the heater subassembly inthe reduced heat mode upon ambient temperature differing from thepreselected temperature by less than the predetermined difference.

In another of its aspects, the invention provides a flame simulatingassembly including a simulated fireplace with a flame image subassemblyfor providing images of flames and a simulated fuel bed, the flame imagesubassembly being positioned relative to the simulated fuel bed so thatthe images of flames at least partially appear to emanate from thesimulated fuel bed. The flame simulating assembly also includes acontroller for controlling the simulated fireplace and an occupancysensor for detecting motion and operatively connected to the controller.The occupancy sensor is adapted to send an activation signal to thecontroller upon detection of motion, and the occupancy sensor is alsoadapted to send a de-activation signal to the controller upon the sensorfailing to detect motion during a predetermined time period. Thecontroller is adapted to activate the simulated fireplace upon receiptof the activation signal, and to de-activate the simulated fireplaceupon receipt of the de-activation signal.

In yet another of its aspects, the invention provides a flame simulatingassembly including a simulated fireplace with a flame image subassemblyfor providing images of flames, a simulated fuel bed, and one or morelight sources for supplying light having an intensity. The flame imagesubassembly is positioned relative to the simulated fuel bed so that theimages of flames at least partially appear to emanate from the simulatedfuel bed. The flame simulating assembly also includes a controller forcontrolling the simulated fireplace and an ambient light sensor forsensing ambient light intensity. The ambient light sensor is adapted totransmit a first signal to the controller upon the ambient lightintensity being greater than a predetermined first ambient lightintensity, and the ambient light sensor is adapted to transmit a secondsignal upon the ambient light intensity being less than a predeterminedsecond ambient light intensity. The controller is adapted to increasethe intensity of the light provided by the light source upon receipt ofthe first signal, to a predetermined maximum. The controller is alsoadapted to decrease the intensity of the light provided by the lightsource upon receipt of the second signal, to a predetermined minimum.

In another aspect, the invention provides a flame simulating assemblyincluding a simulated fireplace with a flame image subassembly forproviding images of flames and a simulated fuel bed, the flame imagesubassembly being positioned relative to the simulated fuel bed so thatthe images of flames at least partially appear to emanate from thesimulated fuel bed. The flame simulating assembly also includes acontroller for causing the flame image subassembly to provide apredetermined sequence of changes in the images of flames, a receiveroperatively connected to the controller, and a remote control device forcontrolling the simulated fireplace. The remote control device includesa user interface for receiving input from the user and converting theinput into input signals, an occupancy sensor for detecting motion, theoccupancy sensor being adapted to generate occupancy-related signalsupon detection of motion, and a microprocessor for converting the inputsignals and the occupancy-related signals into output signals. Theremote control device also includes a transmitter for transmitting theoutput signals to the receiver on the simulated fireplace, so that thesimulated fireplace is controllable by the input signals and theoccupancy-related input signals transmitted from the remote controldevice.

In yet another aspect, the remote control device additionally includesan ambient light sensor.

In another aspect, the remote control device includes a display screenfor displaying data regarding the input signals and the output signals.

In another of its aspects, the invention includes a simulated fuel bedfor simulating a combustible fuel in a fire. The simulated fuel bedincludes one or more light-producing simulated combustible fuel elementswith a body colored and formed for simulating an entire combustible fuelelement. The body of the light-producing simulated combustible fuelelement has one or more cavities therein. The light-producing simulatedcombustible fuel element also has one or more light sources positionedto direct light therefrom inside the cavity. The body of thelight-producing simulated combustible fuel element also has an exteriorsurface and one or more light-transmitting parts extending between thecavity and the exterior surface. The light-transmitting part ispositioned in a path of light from the light source, the light from thelight source being transmittable through the light-transmitting part tothe exterior surface for simulating glowing embers of the combustiblefuel.

In yet another aspect, the simulated fuel bed additionally includes asimulated ember bed. The light-producing-simulated combustible fuelelement is positionable at least partially above the simulated emberbed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be better understood with reference to the drawings,in which:

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a top side and an end of an embodiment ofan embodiment of simulated solid combustible fuel element of theinvention;

FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the simulated solid combustible fuel elementof FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-section of an embodiment of the simulated solidcombustible fuel element of the invention, drawn at a larger scale;

FIG. 4A is a cross-section of an embodiment of a simulated fuel bed ofthe invention, drawn at a larger scale;

FIG. 4B is a cross-section of an alternative embodiment of the simulatedfuel bed of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram schematically representing a methodof forming the simulated solid combustible fuel elements of theinvention;

FIG. 6 is a front view of an embodiment of a flame simulating assemblyof the invention;

FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram schematically representing anembodiment of the simulated fuel bed of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a cross-section of the flame simulating assembly of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is a cross-section of an alternative embodiment of the flamesimulating assembly of the invention;

FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of an alternative embodiment ofthe invention;

FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram of another embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 12 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a remote control deviceof the invention;

FIG. 13 is an elevation view of a side of the remote control device ofFIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is an elevation view of a back end of the remote control deviceof FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is an elevation view of a front end of the remote control deviceof FIG. 12; and

FIG. 16 is a functional block diagram illustrating functional aspects ofthe remote control device of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)

Reference is first made to FIGS. 1-7 to describe an embodiment of asimulated fuel bed in accordance with the invention indicated generallyby the numeral 20 (FIGS. 4A, 4B). The simulated fuel bed 20 is forsimulating a solid combustible fuel burning, and partially consumed, ina natural fire. Preferably, the simulated fuel bed 20 includes a numberof simulated solid combustible fuel elements 22 (FIGS. 7, 8), forsimulating fuel elements which have not been consumed by the fire, orhave only partially been consumed. Each simulated combustible fuelelement 22 has a body 24 which is colored and formed to resemble anentire solid combustible fuel element, as will be described.

As shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B and 5, the elements 22 are preferably arrangedin a pile 25, for instance, to imitate a pile of wooden logs in anatural fire. It will be understood that the simulated fuel elements 22may, in the alternative, be formed and colored to resemble pieces ofcoal. Where the simulated fuel elements 22 are formed to resemble piecesof coal, the simulated fuel elements 22 are preferably arranged in apile, positioned to resemble a pile of coal in a natural fire.

Preferably, the simulated solid combustible fuel elements 22 include oneor more light-producing simulated solid combustible fuel elements 26. Inone embodiment, each light-producing simulated solid combustible fuelelement 26 preferably has a body 28 which is also colored and formed toresemble an entire solid combustible fuel element, and which includesone or more cavities 30 therein. The light-producing simulated solidcombustible fuel element 26 also preferably includes one or more fuellight sources 32 which are positioned to direct light therefrom insidethe cavity 30. As will be described, the light sources 32 in eachlight-producing simulated solid combustible fuel element 26 arepreferably included in a fuel light source subassembly 33. Preferably,the pile 25 includes more than one light-providing simulated fuelelement 26, and the elements 26 are positioned and arranged in the pile25 for optimum simulation of a natural fire, as will be described. Itwill be understood that, alternatively, only one light-producingsimulated fuel element 26 may be used, if desired.

In one embodiment, the body 28 additionally includes an exterior surface34 and one or more light-transmitting parts 36 extending between thecavity 30 and the exterior surface 34. Each light-transmitting part 36is preferably positioned in a path of light from the light source 32, asshown schematically by arrow “A” in FIG. 3. Light from the fuel lightsource 32 is transmittable through the light-transmitting part 36 to theexterior surface 34 for simulating glowing embers of the combustiblefuel.

Preferably, and as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the bodies 24 of thesimulated solid combustible fuel elements 22 are textured to resemblethe exterior surfaces of actual solid combustible fuel elements (e.g.,wooden logs or pieces of coal) which are partially burned, as will bedescribed. Also, the entire body 24 of each simulated fuel element 22closely resembles the entire exterior surface of the actual combustiblefuel, for a more realistic simulation effect (FIGS. 1-3). It will beunderstood that the elements 22 are not shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B and 8-9with detailed exterior surfaces (i.e., as shown in FIGS. 1-3) only inorder to simplify the drawings. Because of the process used to form theelements 22, the exterior surfaces thereof include many realisticfeatures, as will be described.

In one embodiment, the fuel light source subassembly 33 preferablyincludes two or more light sources 32 which are positioned to directlight therefrom inside the cavity 30 to the light-transmitting part 36.Also, it is preferred that each light source 32 is a light-emittingdiode (LED). The fuel light source subassembly 33 preferably alsoincludes a printed circuit board (PCB) 37 on which the LEDs 32 aremounted. It will be understood that the PCB 37 includes the necessarycircuitry and other electronic components required for operation of theLEDs 32, as is known in the art. The PCB 37 is connectable to a sourceof electrical power (not shown), for operation of the LEDs 32. Themanner in which the PCB 37 is connected to the power source is not shownin the drawings because it is well known in the art.

In the preferred embodiment, and as can be seen in FIG. 3, thelight-producing simulated solid combustible fuel element 26 includes thePCB 37 and LEDs 32 mounted thereon (i.e., the fuel light sourcesubassembly 33) located in the cavity 30. The connection of the PCB 37to the power source may be, for example, via wires (not shown)electrically connected to the PCB 37 inside the cavity 30, and alsoelectrically connected to the power source outside the body 28 of thelight-producing simulated solid combustible fuel element 26, fortransmission of electrical power to the fuel light source subassembly33. It will also be understood that various power sources (e.g.,batteries positioned inside the cavity 30) could be used with the lightsource subassembly 33.

As can be seen in FIG. 3, the light-transmitting part 36 is locatedbetween a preselected part 38 of the exterior surface 34 and the cavity30. Preferably, the preselected part 38 is a portion of the exteriorsurface 34 which has been treated (or left untreated, as the case maybe) so that it is capable of substantially transmitting light, and otherparts 39 of the exterior surface 34 have been treated so that theysubstantially block light. The body 28 is preferably formed of amaterial which is at least partially translucent, as will be described.For reasons further described below, the body material preferably iswhite in color.

Preferably, and with a view to achieving a realistic appearance, theexterior surface is substantially covered with paint or any suitablecoloring agent, in any suitable colors (e.g., black and/or grey and/orbrown), mixed and/or positioned as required. However, it is preferredthat the paint (or coloring agent) is spread only thinly, or not at all,in or on the preselected parts 38 on the exterior surface 34 which areintended to allow light to be transmitted therethrough, for simulatingglowing embers. The preselected parts 38 may be substantially exposedareas 42, and also preferably include one or more crevices 40 (FIG. 3).

For example, the paint or other coloring agent is preferably applied sothat it is relatively thin in a substantially exposed area 42, and alsoso that the paint substantially does not cover the crevice 40 (FIG. 3).Because of this, light from the light source 32 is transmittabledirectly through the crevice 40 and also through the exposed area 42.

The parts 39 of the exterior surface 34 which are not intended tosimulate glowing embers preferably are treated so that they havesufficient paint (or coloring agent) on them to block light from thefuel light source(s) 32. For example, where the fuel which is simulatedis wood, the parts 39 preferably resemble the parts of a burning naturallog which do not include glowing embers. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the body28 preferably resembles an entire log, and the exterior surface 34therefore preferably includes both one or more preselected parts 38intended to simulate glowing embers and other parts 39 which are notintended to simulate glowing embers in configurations and arrangementswhich imitate and resemble different parts respectively of a burningnatural log. Similarly, where the fuel which is simulated is coal, thebody 28 preferably resembles an entire piece of coal.

The color of the light produced by the fuel light source 32 and thecolor of the translucent material of the body 28 which includes thelight-transmitting part 36 preferably are selected so as to result in arealistic simulation of burning fuel. In one embodiment, the body 28preferably is primarily a white translucent material (i.e., with paintor any other suitable coloring agent applied on the exterior surface 34,as described above), and the light produced by the fuel light source 32is any suitable shade of the colors red, yellow or orange or anycombination thereof, depending on the burning fuel which the simulatedfuel bed 20 is intended to resemble. The term reddish, as used herein,refers to any suitable color or combination or arrangement of colorsused in the simulated fuel bed 20 to simulate colors of burning orglowing embers in a natural fire, and/or flames in a natural fire.

Also, the body 28 preferably includes one or more cracks or apertures 44through which light from the fuel light source 32 is directlyobservable. The intensity of light from glowing embers in differentlocations in a natural fire varies. Accordingly, because the light fromthe fuel light sources 32 which is directly observable is brighter thanthe light from the sources 32 transmitted through the light-transmittingportions 36, the cracks or apertures 44 provide a realistic simulationdue to the variation in intensity of the light from the light source 32which the cracks or apertures 44 provide, i.e., as compared to the lightfrom the fuel light sources 32 transmitted through thelight-transmitting parts 36. In addition to cracks or apertures 44 whichmay be intentionally formed in the body 28 upon its creation (i.e., inaccordance with a predetermined pattern), other cracks or apertures maybe formed in the body 28, i.e., other than pursuant to a predeterminedpattern. Such cracks or apertures may be formed when the body 28 iscreated, or they may be formed later, e.g., the simulated fuel elements22 may crack after an extended period of time. For this reason also, itis preferable that the fuel light sources 32 provide reddish light.

However, it will be understood that other arrangements are possible. Forexample, in an alternative embodiment, the body material of thelight-producing simulated fuel element 26 is colored reddish, and inthis case, the light produced by the fuel light source 32 preferably issubstantially white, i.e., uncolored.

Preferably, the simulated combustible fuel elements 22 are formed in asilicone rubber mold (FIG. 5). The silicone rubber mold is resilientlyflexible. Preferably, a thermoset material (e.g., polyurethane),substantially liquefied, is poured into the mold, which is then rotated(step 1002, FIG. 5). Preferably, the amount of material is sufficient toform the body 28, but also insufficient to form a solid body, so thatthe cavity 30 is formed inside the body 28 The rotation of the mold isin accordance with rotational molding generally, and will not bedescribed here in detail because it is well known in the art. Afterrotation, the material is cured (step 1004, FIG. 5). After curing, themold is peeled off (step 1006, FIG. 5), and realistic surface featuressuch as undercuts (FIG. 3) can be provided. This procedure results insimulated fuel elements 22 with exterior surfaces having a detailed,irregular and realistic texture, such as the elements 22 shown in FIGS.1-3, simulating an entire exterior surface of a natural log includingundercuts 46 (FIG. 3). For example, as can be seen in a detailed area 49in FIG. 1, the exterior surface 34 may include a plurality of ridges 48simulating a surface of a semi-burned log. (It will be understood thatthe area 49 shown in FIG. 1 is exemplary only, and the balance of thesurface 34 is understood to resemble the portions of the surface 34illustrated in area 49. The details of the ridges 48 have not been shownoutside the area 49 in FIG. 1, and in FIG. 2 for simplicity ofillustration.)

In order to create the silicone rubber mold (step 1000, FIG. 5), first,a sample of semi-burned combustible fuel (e.g., a partially burned log)is covered in silicone rubber, which is then allowed to set. Thesilicone rubber mold is cut, and then separated from the sample log.Preferably, only one cut is made in the mold. For example, a single cutalong a length of the mold large enough to facilitate removal of thesample log is preferred. In most cases, a significant amount of debris(i.e., small pieces of wood which fell off the log) remains in the firstmold. In practice, a second mold is required to be taken, in order toobtain a mold which accurately reproduces the surface of the sample butdoes not include a significant amount of debris. To obtain the secondmold, the process described for the first mold is repeated. The secondmold tends to have less debris because, for a particular sample log,most of the debris is removed by the first mold. It will be understoodthat a plurality of sample logs are used in order to provide simulatedfuel elements with different bodies, for a more realistic simulationeffect.

Where the fuel which is to be simulated is coal, the same procedure isused to create the simulated fuel elements 22, with sample pieces ofcoal.

Preferably, the body 28 of the light-producing simulated fuel element 26is formed so that it includes the cavity 30 therein. As noted above, itis preferred that, once solidified, the body 28 is at least partiallytranslucent. In the alternative, the body 28 of the light-producingsimulated fuel element 26 may be made without the cavity 30 formedtherein. However, in this case, the cavity 30 is subsequently formed inthe body 28, by any other suitable means, e.g., drilling.

As described above, it will be understood that the simulated fuelelement 22 which are not light-producing elements 26 may not include thecavity 30. Preferably, the exteriors of the simulated elements 22 whichare not light-producing are substantially the same as the exteriors ofthe light-producing simulated fuel elements 26.

Preferably, when the body 28 of the light-producing fuel element 26 isformed, the body represents the entire log. However, in order to permitthe light source subassembly 33 to be inserted into the cavity 30 wherethe cavity 30 was formed during the creation of the body 28, an aperture50 preferably is formed in the body 28 which is in communication withthe cavity 30. The aperture 50 may be formed in any suitable manner,such as, for example, by drilling.

Preferably, the light assembly 33 (FIG. 4A, 4B), is inserted into thecavity 30 through the aperture 50, to position the LEDs 32 relative tothe light-transmitting part(s) 36 as required. After the light assembly33 has been positioned in the cavity 30, a plug 52 of material isinserted into the aperture 50. The plug material may be any suitablematerial. Preferably, the plug material is the thermoset material of thebody 28 which is cured and colored similarly to the parts of theexterior surface 34 which are adjacent to the aperture 50. If electricalwires are used to connect the PCB 37 to an electrical power source, thensuch wires are preferably allowed to extend through the aperture 50before the plug 52 is emplaced in the aperture. The wires are preferablypositioned so that they are not generally noticeable to an observer whenthe light-producing simulated fuel element 26 is positioned in the pile25 with other elements 22.

As shown in FIG. 6, the pile 25 of simulated fuel elements 22 preferablyis positioned in a housing 54 of a simulated fireplace 56. The pile 25has a central region 58 which is generally positioned centrally relativeto the simulated fireplace housing 54. In imitation of a natural fire,portions 60 of the light-producing simulated fuel elements 26 which arelocated substantially in the central region 58 preferably are treated sothat a plurality of light-transmitting parts 36 are located in theportions 60. However, end portions 62 of the light-producing simulatedfuel elements 26 which are generally positioned outside the centralportion 58 preferably have relatively fewer light-transmitting portions36. In one embodiment, the fuel light sources 32 are positioned insidethe simulated fuel elements 26 substantially in the portions 60. In thealternative, however, the light sources 32 are positioned in the endportions 62 as well as the portions 60, and relatively more paint islayered on the end portions 62 so that light is substantially notdirected out of the end portions 62. The central positioning of thelight-transmitting portions 36 in the pile 25 results in an improvedsimulation of glowing embers.

Preferably, the simulated fuel bed 20 also includes a controller 64(FIG. 7) for controlling the fuel light source 32. For instance, thefuel light source 32 may be controlled by the controller 64 to providepulsating light, for simulating light from glowing embers. In oneembodiment, the controller 64 causes light from the light source 32 topulsate randomly.

In another embodiment, the controller 64 causes the light from the fuellight source 32 to pulsate systematically, and/or in a predeterminedpattern. Preferably, the predetermined pattern in which the light fromthe fuel light source 32 pulsates is determined in relation to images offlames 66 which are provided in the simulated fireplace 56, to simulateflames emanating from the simulated fuel bed 20 (FIG. 6).

The controller 64 preferably includes one or more modules 68, includinga memory storage means 70 and a user interface 72. The controller 64 caninclude, for example, firmware which provides options selectable by auser (not shown) via the user interface 72. In addition, or in thealternative, direct (manual) control by the user via the user interface72 may be permitted. Alternatively, the controller 64 could beprogrammed to cause variations in the light produced by the LEDs 32 inaccordance with a predetermined sequence in a program stored in memory70. The controller 64 also preferably includes any suitable means forcausing light created by the light source 32 to vary as required, e.g.,a triac to vary voltage as required, as is known in the art.

As shown in FIG. 6, the simulated fuel bed 20 is preferably positionedin the simulated fireplace 56. In one embodiment, the simulatedfireplace 56 includes a flame image subassembly 74, for providing theimages of flames 66. The simulated fuel bed 20 is preferably positionedin the simulated fireplace 56 so that the images of flames 66 appear toemanate from the simulated fuel bed 20. Such arrangements are disclosed,for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,642,580 and 6,050,011. Each of U.S.Pat. No. 5,642,580 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,050,011 is hereby incorporatedherein by reference.

Also, the controller 64 is programmable to modulate the fuel lightsource 32 in accordance with one or more selected characteristics of theimages of flames 66. For instance, in one embodiment, the controller 64preferably is programmed so that, upon the speed of rotation of anelement in the flame image sub-assembly 74 increasing (i.e., to resultin images of flames 66 which flicker faster), the controller 64 causesthe rate of pulsation of light from the light source 32 to increaseproportionately, but also realistically. It is preferred that increasesin pulsation not correspond directly (i.e., linearly) to increases inthe rate at which the flame effect flickers.

In another embodiment, the simulated fireplace 56 also includes one ormore toplights 75 positioned above the simulated fuel bed 20 (FIG. 6).The toplight 75 provides light directed downwardly onto the simulatedfuel bed 20 and simulates light from flames which illuminates the fuelin a natural fire, thereby adding to the simulation effect provided bythe simulated fireplace 56. The use of a toplight in a simulatedfireplace is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,385,881, which is herebyincorporated hereby by reference.

In another embodiment, the controller 64 is programmable to modulate thetoplight 75, for example, in accordance with one or more selectedcharacteristics of the images of flames 66.

As described above, the LEDs 32 can be constructed so as to emit lighthaving different colors. Preferably, LEDs 32 which produce differentcolors are arranged relative to each other in an element 26, and also ina plurality of elements 26, and modulated by the controller 64 toproduce pulsating light respectively, together or separately as the casemay be, to provide a realistic glowing ember effect through thelight-transmitting part 36. Each of the light sources 32 is adapted topulsate independently in accordance with signals received from thecontroller 64, if so desired.

The arrangements of the LEDs 32 relative to each other preferably takesinto account LEDs inside the same light-producing simulated fuel element26. In addition, however, the positioning of LEDs 32 producing lightwith various colors should also take into account the LEDs 32 in all ofthe light-producing fuel elements 26 in the pile 25, and in particular,LEDs 32 positioned in adjacent elements 26.

In one embodiment, the simulated fuel bed 20 preferably includes asimulated ember bed 76 (FIG. 4A). In this embodiment, the plurality ofsimulated combustible fuel elements 22 are preferably positionable atleast partially above the simulated ember bed 76, as shown in FIG. 4A.

As can also be seen in FIGS. 4B and 6, the simulated fuel bed optionallyincludes a simulated grate element 78 for simulating a grate in afireplace. The simulated combustible fuel elements 22 are positionableon the simulated grate element 78. It is preferred that an alternativeembodiment of a simulated ember bed 80 also is positioned beneath thegrate element 78.

In use, the user selects the desired control option using the userinterface 72, to control (via the controller 64) light provided by thefuel light sources 32. Preferably, the controller 64 is adapted tocontrol light sources 32 in a number of light-producing simulated solidcombustible fuel elements 26 in the simulated fuel bed 20. In oneembodiment, the light-producing elements 26 are positioned substantiallynear the bottom of the pile 25 (FIG. 6).

Additional embodiments of the invention are shown in FIGS. 8-16. InFIGS. 8-16, elements are numbered so as to correspond to like elementsshown in FIGS. 1-7.

As can be seen in FIG. 8, a flame simulating assembly 84 includes thesimulated fireplace 56 which has the flame image subassembly 74 forproviding images of flames 66. Different types of flame imagesubassemblies 74 are known in the art. For instance, the flame imagesubassembly 84 shown in FIG. 8 includes a flicker element 86 for causingthe images of flames 66 to fluctuate, for simulating flames. As shown inFIG. 8, the flame simulating assembly 84 also preferably includes thesimulated fuel bed 120. The flame image subassembly 74 positions theimages of flames 66 (i.e., the images of flames are transmitted througha screen 87) so that the images of flames 66 appear to emanate from thesimulated fuel bed 120 (FIG. 6). The simulated fuel bed 120 includes thesimulated ember bed 76 which is positioned below the simulated grateelement 78. The simulated fuel elements 22 are positioned in the grate78 in a realistic pile 25.

As shown in FIG. 8, the flicker element 86 is preferably locatedunderneath the simulated ember bed 80. The flame image subassembly 84preferably also includes one or more flame light sources 88 and a flameeffect element 90. Also, as shown in FIG. 8, the simulated fireplace 56also preferably includes the housing 54 with a back wall 92, and theflame effect element 90 is preferably located on the back wall 92.

In the flame image subassembly 74 shown in FIG. 8, the flame lightsource 88 is located generally below the simulated ember bed 80 andadjacent to the back wall 92. Preferably, the light produced by theflame light source 88 is modulated to provide such changes in the imagesof flames 66 as may be desired. Also, the speed at which the flickerelement 86 is rotated can also be varied, to provided any desiredchanges in the images of flames 66.

Another embodiment of a flame simulating assembly 274 is shown in FIG.9. As shown in FIG. 9, the flame simulating assembly 274 includes aflame image subassembly 284 which includes a flicker element 286, aflame light source 288, and a flame effect element 290. The simulatedfuel bed 220 is positioned so that the images of flames 66 appear toemanate from the simulated fuel bed 220. As can be seen in FIG. 9, theflame light source 288 is preferably located directly underneath thesimulated ember bed 80 in this embodiment. The flicker element 286 is,in this embodiment, positioned adjacent to the back wall 292.

In another embodiment, the flame simulating assembly 384 includes acontroller 364 which is adapted to effect a predetermined sequence ofchanges in the images of flames 366. Preferably, the controller causes aflame image subassembly 374 to provide the predetermined sequence ofchanges (FIG. 10). For example, the predetermined sequence of changesmay include a gradual increase in intensity of the images of flames 66.

For the purposes hereof, intensity of light produced by a light sourcerefers to the amount of light per unit of area or volume. For example,intensity may be measured in units of lumens or candelas per squaremeter.

Preferably, the predetermined sequence of changes are in accordance withsoftware stored in a memory storage means 370 accessible by thecontroller 364. The predetermined sequence of changes may proceed at apreselected rate. Also, the preselected rate may be determined by thecontroller 364, if preferred. In another embodiment, the controller 364is controllable by the user via a user interface 372 and thepredetermined sequence of changes proceeds at a rate determined by theuser via the user interface 372.

In the preferred embodiment, the flame simulating assembly 384 alsoincludes at least one fuel light source 332 positioned in one or morelight producing simulating fuel elements 326 in the simulated fuel bed320, to simulate glowing embers.

Preferably, the controller 364 is operable in a start-up mode, in whicha gradual increase in intensity of light providing the images of flames366 takes place. In one embodiment, upon commencement of thepredetermined sequence of changes, the intensity of the light providingthe images of flames 366 is relatively low, so that the predeterminedsequence of changes (i.e., a gradual increase in intensity of lightproviding the images of flames 366) resembles a natural fire duringcommencement thereof. In an alternative embodiment, prior tocommencement of the predetermined sequence of changes, the images offlames 366 are substantially nonexistent.

Similarly, in an alternative embodiment, the light providing the imagesof flames 366 is gradually decreased in intensity by the controller 364.The decrease preferably proceeds until the images of flames 366 aresubstantially nonexistent, i.e., the gradually decreasing images offlames 366 resemble a natural fire which is gradually dying.

In another alternative embodiment, the flame simulating assembly 484includes a heater subassembly 493 (FIG. 9) with one or more heaterelements 494 therein, and preferably including a fan and a fan motor.The heater subassembly 493 is adapted to operate in a basic heat mode493 a (FIG. 11), in which the heater subassembly consumes a first amountof electrical power, and also to operate in a reduced heat mode 493 b(FIG. 11), in which the heater subassembly 493 consumes a second amountof electrical power. The first amount of electrical power issubstantially greater than the second amount of electrical power. Theflame simulating assembly 484 also includes a controller 464 whichincludes a means for converting the heater subassembly 493 between thebasic heat mode and the reduced heat mode (FIG. 11).

The flame simulating assembly 484 preferably also includes a thermostat496 for controlling the heater subassembly 493. The thermostat 496 isadapted to operate the heater subassembly 493 in the basic heat modeupon ambient temperature differing from a preselected temperature bymore than a predetermined difference. Also, the thermostat is adapted tooperate the heater subassembly 493 in the reduced heat mode upon ambienttemperature differing from the preselected temperature by less than thepredetermined difference.

As shown in FIGS. 12-16, a flame simulating assembly 584 of theinvention preferably includes a remote control device 598 forcontrolling a simulated fireplace 556. Preferably, the remote controldevice 598 includes a user interface 601 for receiving input from theuser and converting the input into input signals. The remote controldevice 598 preferably also includes an occupancy sensor 603 fordetecting motion. The occupancy sensor 603 is adapted to generateoccupancy-related signals upon detection of motion. Also, the remotecontrol device includes a microprocessor 605 and a transmitter 607 (FIG.16). The microprocessor 605 is for converting the input signals and theoccupancy-related signals into output signals. The transmitter 607 isfor transmitting the output signals to a receiver 609 which ispreferably positioned on the simulated fireplace 556. The receiver 609is operatively connected to a controller 564 which controls thesimulated fireplace 556. Accordingly, the simulated fireplace 556 iscontrollable by the user via input signals and by the occupancy-relatedinput signals which are transmitted from the remote control device 598to the receiver 609, and subsequently to the controller 564.

Preferably, the occupancy sensor 603 is adapted to send an activationsignal to the controller 564 upon detection of motion. The activationsignal is one of the occupancy-related signals which are transmittedfrom the remote control device to the receiver 609 which is operativelyconnected to the controller 564, as described above. It is alsopreferred that the occupancy sensor 603 is also adapted to send ade-activation signal to the controller upon a sensor failing to detectmotion during a predetermined time period (FIG. 16). The de-activationsignal is another of the occupancy-related signals. The controller 564preferably is adapted to activate the simulated fireplace 556 uponreceipt of the activation signal. Also, the controller 564 preferably isadapted to de-activate the simulated fireplace 556 upon receipt of thede-activation signal.

Preferably, the remote control device additionally includes an ambientlight sensor 611. The ambient light sensor 611 is for sensing ambientlight intensity. For the purposes hereof, ambient light intensity refersto the amount of ambient light per unit of area or volume. The ambientlight in question is the light generally around, or in the vicinity of,the simulated fireplace and/or the user.

Preferably, the ambient light sensor 611 provides substantiallyautomatic adjustment of the light provided by one or more light sourcesin a simulated fireplace 556 to provide an improved simulation effect.The light sources thus adjusted preferably include any or all of thetoplight 75, the flame light source 88, and the fuel light source 32. Inone embodiment, the ambient light sensor 611 is adapted to provide afirst signal which is transmitted to the controller 564 upon the ambientlight intensity being greater than a predetermined first ambient lightintensity. The ambient light sensor 611 is also preferably adapted toprovide a second signal which is transmitted to the controller 564 uponthe ambient light intensity being less than a predetermined secondambient light intensity. The controller 564 is adapted to increase theintensity of the light provided by the light source (i.e., being any oneor all of the toplight 75, the flame light source 88, and the fuel lightsource 32) upon receipt of the first signal, up to a predeterminedmaximum. Also, the controller 564 is adapted to decrease the intensityof the light provided by the light source upon receipt of the secondsignal, to a predetermined minimum.

In an alternative embodiment, the ambient light sensor 611 is adapted tocause the controller 564 to effect a preselected change in the intensityof the light supplied by the light source upon the ambient lightintensity differing from the intensity of light from the light source toa predetermined extent. For example, the light source could be adjustedso that light provided by the light source has an intensity which issubstantially proportional to the ambient light intensity. As notedabove, the light source could be all or any one of the toplight 75, theflame light source 88, and the fuel light source 32.

As can be seen in FIGS. 12-15, the occupancy sensor 603 and the ambientlight sensor 611 preferably are positioned on the remote control device598. Preferably, the occupancy light sensor 603 includes a screen orlens 612 through which ambient light is transmittable (FIGS. 12-14). Itis preferred that the ambient light sensor 611 also be positioned behindthe screen 612. Positioning the occupancy sensor 603 in the remotecontrol device 598 provides the advantage that the occupancy sensor 603is likely to detect motion because it is positioned on the remotecontrol device 598. Also, the ambient light sensor 611 senses ambientlight generally in the vicinity of the user. Preferably, the remotecontrol device includes a display screen 613 which, for example, may bea LCD display. The remote control device 598 also includes controlbuttons 615, to be used to enable the user to provide input.

It is also preferred that the thermostat 496 (preferably, in the form ofa thermistor) is positioned in the remote control device 598, behindapertures 617 provided to enable ambient air to reach the thermistor.The advantage of having the thermistor positioned in the remote controldevice 598 is that temperature will be adjusted in accordance with thetemperature of the ambient air generally in the vicinity of the user.

The display screen 613 is for displaying data regarding input signalsand, preferably, output signals. Input from the user is receivable viathe display screen, in one embodiment.

In an alternative embodiment, the receiver 609 is a transceiver, andinformation (data) is transmittable to the remote control device 598from the controller 564 through the receiver 609. In this case, thetransmitter 607 is also a transceiver.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the inventioncan take many forms, and that such forms are within the scope of theinvention as claimed. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appendedclaims should not be limited to the descriptions of the preferredversions contained herein.

1. A simulated fuel bed for simulating a solid combustible fuel in afire, the simulated fuel bed comprising: a plurality of simulatedcombustible fuel elements, each said simulated combustible fuel elementcomprising a body colored and formed for simulating an entirecombustible fuel element; said simulated combustible fuel elementscomprising at least one light-producing simulated combustible fuelelement; said body of said at least one light-producing simulatedcombustible fuel element comprising at least one cavity therein; said atleast one light-producing simulated combustible fuel element comprisingat least one light source positioned to direct light therefrom insidesaid at least one cavity; said body of said at least one light-producingsimulated combustible fuel element additionally comprising: an exteriorsurface; at least one light-transmitting part extending between said atleast one cavity and the exterior surface; and said at least onelight-transmitting part being positioned in a path of said light fromsaid at least one light source, said light from said at least one lightsource being transmittable through said at least one light-transmittingpart to the exterior surface for simulating glowing embers of thecombustible fuel.
 2. A simulated fuel bed according to claim 1additionally comprising a simulated ember bed, said plurality ofsimulated combustible fuel elements being positionable at leastpartially above the simulated ember bed.
 3. A simulated fuel bedaccording to claim 1 additionally comprising a controller to cause saidlight from said at least one light source to pulsate for simulatinglight from glowing embers.
 4. A simulated fuel bed according to claim 3in which the controller causes said light from said at least one lightsource to pulsate randomly.
 5. A simulated fuel bed according to claim 3in which the controller causes said light from said at least one lightsource to pulsate in a predetermined pattern.
 6. A simulated fuel bedaccording to claim 5 in which the predetermined pattern is determined inrelation to images of flames provided to simulate flames emanating fromthe simulated fuel bed.
 7. A simulated fuel bed according to claim 1 inwhich: said at least one light-producing simulated combustible fuelelement comprises at least two light sources positioned to direct lighttherefrom inside said at least one cavity; and the simulated fuel bedadditionally comprising a controller for causing light from each of saidat least two light sources to pulsate respectively for simulating lightfrom glowing embers.
 8. A simulated fuel bed according to claim 7 inwhich each of said at least two light sources pulsates independently. 9.A simulated fuel bed according to claim 7 in which each of said at leasttwo light sources provides light which is colored differently, forsimulating light from glowing embers.
 10. A simulated fuel bed accordingto claim 1 additionally comprising: a simulated grate element forsimulating a grate; and said plurality of combustible fuel elementsbeing positionable on the simulated grate element.
 11. A simulated fuelbed according to claim 2 additionally comprising: a simulated grateelement for simulating a grate; and the simulated ember bed beingpositionable substantially below the simulated grate element.
 12. Asimulated fuel bed according to claim 1 comprising: at least twolight-producing simulated combustible fuel elements; and a controllerfor causing said light from said at least one light source respectivelyin each of said at least two light-producing simulated combustible fuelelements to pulsate respectively for simulating light from glowingembers.
 13. A simulated fuel bed according to claim 1 in which each ofsaid at least two light-producing simulated combustible fuel elementspulsates independently.
 14. A simulated fuel bed according to claim 1adapted for use with a flame simulating assembly, the flame simulatingassembly comprising: a flame image subassembly for providing images offlames; the flame image subassembly being positioned relative to thesimulated fuel bed such that the images of flames appear to emanate fromthe simulated fuel bed; and the simulated fuel bed additionallycomprising a controller for causing said light from said at least onelight source to pulsate for simulating light from glowing embers.
 15. Asimulated fuel bed according to claim 1 in which said body comprises atleast one aperture positioned relative to said at least one light sourcefor permitting said light from said at least one light source to passthrough said at least one aperture.
 16. A simulated fuel bed accordingto claim 1 in which said at least one light source comprises at leastone LED.
 17. A simulated fuel bed according to claim 16 in which said atleast one LED is mounted on a printed circuit board.
 18. A simulatedfuel bed according to claim 1 in which each said body of each saidsimulated combustible fuel element and said body of said at least onelight-producing simulated combustible fuel element are formed in atleast one resiliently flexible mold.
 19. A simulated fuel bed accordingto claim 18 in which each said body is substantially comprised of apolyresin material.
 20. A simulated combustible fuel element comprising:a body colored and formed for simulating an entire combustible fuelelement, the body comprising at least one cavity therein; at least onelight source positioned substantially inside said at least one cavity;the body additionally comprising: an exterior surface; at least onelight-transmitting part extending between said at least one cavity andthe exterior surface; said at least one light-transmitting part beingpositioned in a path of light from said at least one light sourcethrough which light from said at least one light source is transmittableto the exterior surface for simulating glowing embers of the combustiblefuel; and the exterior surface comprising at least one substantiallyopaque exterior part.
 21. A simulated combustible fuel element accordingto claim 20 in which said at least one light-transmitting part comprisesan exterior segment forming part of the exterior surface colored andformed to resemble glowing embers of the combustible fuel upontransmission therethrough of said light from said at least one lightsource.
 22. A simulated combustible fuel element according to claim 20in which said at least one light-transmitting part is substantiallynoncolored.
 23. A simulated combustible fuel element according to claim20 in which said at least one light-transmitting part is substantiallytranslucent.
 24. A simulated combustible fuel element according to claim20 in which said at least one light source comprises at least one LED.25. A simulated combustible fuel element according to claim 24 in whichsaid light emitted by said at least one LED is colored.
 26. A simulatedcombustible fuel element according to claim 25 in which said light fromsaid at least one LED is colored reddish.
 27. A simulated combustiblefuel element according to claim 20 additionally comprising a controllerfor causing said light from said at least one light source to pulsatefor simulating light from glowing embers.
 28. A flame simulatingassembly comprising: a simulated fuel bed; the flame image subassemblypositioning said images of flames such that said images of flames appearto emanate from the simulated fuel bed; the simulated fuel bedcomprising: a plurality of simulated combustible fuel elements, eachsaid simulated combustible fuel element comprising a body colored andformed for simulating an entire combustible fuel element; saidcombustible fuel elements comprising at least one light-producingsimulated combustible fuel element; said body of said at least onelight-producing simulated combustible fuel element comprising at leastone cavity therein; said at least one light-producing simulatedcombustible fuel element comprising at least one light source positionedat least partially in said at least one cavity; said body of said atleast one light-producing simulated combustible fuel elementadditionally comprising at least one light-transmitting part positionedin a path of light from said at least one light source; said at leastone light-transmitting part extending between said at least one cavityand the exterior surface such that said at least one light-transmittingpart resembles glowing embers of the combustible fuel upon transmissiontherethrough of light from said at least one light source; and acontroller for causing said light from said at least one light source topulsate for simulating light from glowing embers.
 29. A flame simulatingassembly according to claim 28 in which the simulated fuel bedadditionally comprises a simulated ember bed, on which said simulatedcombustible fuel elements are positioned.
 30. A flame simulatingassembly according to claim 28 additionally comprising a grate elementfor supporting said simulated combustible fuel elements, said grateelement being colored and formed to simulate a fireplace grate.
 31. Amethod of forming a simulated combustible fuel element comprising thesteps of: (a) providing a resiliently flexible mold prepared using as amodel a partially burned sample of a combustible fuel element; (b)introducing a predetermined amount of a liquefied body material into themold; (c) rotating the mold to produce a body comprising said bodymaterial and resembling the entire combustible fuel element, the bodyincluding at least one cavity and an exterior surface; (d) curing thebody to solidify said body material; (e) forming an access hole in thebody in communication with said at least one cavity; (f) inserting atleast one light source at least partially in the cavity through theaccess hole, to locate said at least one light source in a predeterminedposition; (g) inserting plug material into the access hole, tosubstantially block the access hole; and (h) coating at least a portionof the exterior surface in accordance with a predetermined exteriorsurface pattern to provide (i) at least one light-transmitting partpositioned in a path of light from said at least one light source, saidat least one light-transmitting part being colored to resemble glowingembers of the combustible fuel upon transmission therethrough of lightfrom said at least one light source, and (ii) at least one substantiallyopaque exterior part colored to resemble a non-ember part of thecombustible fuel.
 32. A flame simulating assembly comprising: a flameimage subassembly for providing images of flames; a simulated fuel bed;the flame image subassembly being positioned relative to the simulatedfuel bed such that said images of flames at least partially appear toemanate from the simulated fuel bed; and a controller for causing theflame image subassembly to provide a predetermined sequence of changesin the images of flames.
 33. A flame simulating assembly according toclaim 32 in which the predetermined sequence of changes comprises agradual increase in intensity of said images of flames.
 34. A flamesimulating assembly according to claim 33 in which upon commencement ofthe predetermined sequence of changes said intensity of said images offlames is relatively low, such that the predetermined sequence ofchanges resembles a natural fire during commencement thereof.
 35. Aflame simulating assembly according to claim 32 in which thepredetermined sequence of changes comprises a gradual decrease inintensity of said images of flames.
 36. A flame simulating assemblyaccording to claim 35 in which the predetermined sequence of changescauses said images of flames to resemble a natural fire which isgradually dying.
 37. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 32in which the predetermined sequence of changes proceeds at a preselectedrate.
 38. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 37 in which thepreselected rate is determined by the controller.
 39. A flame simulatingassembly according to claim 32 in which the controller is controllableby a user via a user interface and the predetermined sequence of changesproceeds at a rate determined by the user via the user interface.
 40. Aflame simulating assembly according to claim 32 additionally comprisingat least one fuel light source positioned in at least one simulated fuelelement in the simulated fuel bed, to simulate glowing embers.
 41. Aflame simulating assembly according to claim 40 in which said controlleris adapted to cause said light provided by said at least one fuel lightsource to vary.
 42. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 41 inwhich said controller causes light from said at least one light sourceto pulsate such that said light imitates light from glowing embers. 43.A flame simulating assembly according to claim 41 in which thecontroller causes said light from said at least one fuel light source toincrease gradually in intensity.
 44. A flame simulating assemblyaccording to claim 41 in which the controller causes said light fromsaid at least one fuel light source to decrease gradually in intensity.45. A flame simulating assembly comprising: a flame image subassemblyfor providing images of flames; a simulated fuel bed; the flame imagesubassembly being positioned relative to the simulated fuel bed suchthat said images of flames at least partially appear to emanate from thesimulated fuel bed; a heater subassembly comprising at least one heaterelement; the heater subassembly being adapted to operate in a basic heatmode, in which the heater subassembly consumes a first amount ofelectrical power, and also being adapted to operate in a reduced heatmode, in which the heater subassembly consumes a second amount ofelectrical power, the first amount being substantially greater than thesecond amount; and a controller comprising means for converting theheater subassembly between the basic heat mode and the reduced heatmode.
 46. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 45 additionallycomprising a thermostat for controlling the heater subassembly, thethermostat being adapted to operate the heater subassembly in the basicheat mode upon ambient temperature differing from a preselectedtemperature by more than a predetermined difference, and the thermostatbeing adapted to operate the heater subassembly in the reduced heat modeupon ambient temperature differing from the preselected temperature byless than the predetermined difference.
 47. A flame simulating assemblycomprising: a simulated fireplace comprising: a flame image subassemblyfor providing images of flames; a simulated fuel bed; the flame imagesubassembly being positioned relative to the simulated fuel bed suchthat said images of flames at least partially appear to emanate from thesimulated fuel bed; a controller for controlling the simulatedfireplace; an occupancy sensor for detecting motion and operativelyconnected to the controller, the occupancy sensor being adapted to sendan activation signal to the controller upon detection of motion, and theoccupancy sensor being adapted to send a de-activation signal to thecontroller upon the sensor failing to detect motion during apredetermined time period; and the controller being adapted to activatethe simulated fireplace upon receipt of the activation signal and tode-activate the simulated fireplace upon receipt of the de-activationsignal.
 48. A flame simulating assembly comprising: a simulatedfireplace comprising: a flame image subassembly for providing images offlames; a simulated fuel bed; at least one light source for supplyinglight having an intensity; the flame image subassembly being positionedrelative to the simulated fuel bed such that said images of flames atleast partially appear to emanate from the simulated fuel bed; acontroller for controlling the simulated fireplace; an ambient lightsensor for sensing ambient light intensity, the ambient light sensorbeing adapted to transmit a first signal to the controller upon saidambient light intensity being greater than a predetermined first ambientlight intensity, and the ambient light sensor being adapted to transmita second signal upon said ambient light intensity being less than apredetermined second ambient light intensity; the controller beingadapted to increase said intensity of said light provided by said atleast one light source upon receipt of the first signal, to apredetermined maximum; and the controller being adapted to decrease saidintensity of said light provided by said at least one light source uponreceipt of the second signal, to a predetermined minimum.
 49. A flamesimulating assembly according to claim 48 in which said at least onelight source comprises at least one toplight positioned to direct lightonto the simulated fuel bed, for simulating light from flames.
 50. Aflame simulating assembly according to claim 48 in which said at leastone light source comprises at least one flame light source supplyinglight for providing said images of flames.
 51. A flame simulatingassembly according to claim 48 in which said at least one light sourcecomprises at least one fuel light source simulating glowing embers. 52.A flame simulating assembly comprising: a simulated fireplacecomprising: a flame image subassembly for providing images of flames; asimulated fuel bed; at least one light source for supplying light havingan intensity; the flame image subassembly being positioned relative tothe simulated fuel bed such that said images of flames at leastpartially appear to emanate from the simulated fuel bed; a controllerfor controlling the simulated fireplace; an ambient light sensor forsensing ambient light intensity; and the ambient light sensor beingadapted to cause the controller to effect a preselected change in saidintensity of said light supplied by said at least one light source uponsaid ambient light intensity differing from said intensity of said lightfrom said at least one light source to a predetermined extent.
 53. Aflame simulating assembly according to claim 52 in which said intensityof said light from said at least one light source is proportional tosaid ambient light intensity.
 54. A flame simulating assembly accordingto claim 52 in which said at least one light source comprises at leastone toplight positioned to direct light onto the simulated fuel bed, forsimulating light from flames.
 55. A flame simulating assembly accordingto claim 52 in which said at least one light source comprises at leastone flame light source supplying light for providing said images offlames.
 56. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 48 in whichsaid at least one light source comprises at least one fuel light sourcesimulating glowing embers.
 57. A flame simulating assembly comprising: asimulated fireplace comprising: a flame image subassembly for providingimages of flames; a simulated fuel bed; the flame image subassemblybeing positioned relative to the simulated fuel bed such that saidimages of flames at least partially appear to emanate from the simulatedfuel bed; a controller for causing the flame image subassembly toprovide a predetermined sequence of changes in the images of flames; areceiver operatively connected to the controller; a remote controldevice for controlling the simulated fireplace, the remote controldevice comprising: a user interface for receiving input from the userand converting said input into input signals; an occupancy sensor fordetecting motion, said occupancy sensor being adapted to generateoccupancy-related signals upon detection of motion; a microprocessor forconverting the input signals and the occupancy-related signals intooutput signals; and a transmitter for transmitting the output signals tothe receiver on the simulated fireplace, whereby the simulated fireplaceis controllable by said input signals and said occupancy-related inputsignals transmitted from said remote control device.
 58. A flamesimulating assembly according to claim 57 in which the remote controldevice additionally comprises an ambient light sensor.
 59. A flamesimulating assembly according to claim 57 in which the remote controldevice additionally comprises a display screen for displaying dataregarding the input signals and the output signals.
 60. A flamesimulating assembly according to claim 59 in which input from the useris receivable via the display screen.
 61. A flame simulating assemblyaccording to claim 57 in which the receiver comprises a transceiver, andinformation is transmitted to the remote control device from thecontroller through the transceiver.
 62. A simulated fuel bed forsimulating a combustible fuel in a fire, the simulated fuel bedcomprising: at least one light-producing simulated combustible fuelelement comprising a body colored and formed for simulating an entirecombustible fuel element; said body of said at least one light-producingsimulated combustible fuel element comprising at least one cavitytherein; said at least one light-producing simulated combustible fuelelement comprising at least one light source positioned to direct lighttherefrom inside said at least one cavity; said body of said at leastone light-producing simulated combustible fuel element additionallycomprising: an exterior surface; at least one light-transmitting partextending between said at least one cavity and the exterior surface; andsaid at least one light-transmitting part being positioned in a path ofsaid light from said at least one light source, said light from said atleast one light source being transmittable through said at least onelight-transmitting part to the exterior surface for simulating glowingembers of the combustible fuel.
 63. A simulated fuel bed according toclaim 62 additionally comprising a simulated ember bed, said at leastone light-producing simulated combustible fuel element beingpositionable at least partially above the simulated ember bed.